For Mike Austin, taking on the London Marathon is about more than endurance — it’s about standing side by side with his son and being a voice for acceptance, inclusion and change.

Mike, a father and experienced endurance runner, is no stranger to pushing his limits. He has already completed four marathons for autism charities and raised more than £13,600 for Autism Hampshire.

In December, he went even further — completing an extraordinary 100-mile run in 21 hours and 47 minutes, all to make a difference for autistic children and families like his own.

A journey inspired by his son

Mike’s motivation comes from his five-year-old son, Arthur, who is autistic and non-verbal.

Arthur was diagnosed before his third birthday, and his daily experiences have shaped Mike’s determination to take on challenges that most people wouldn’t consider.

“Arthur is autistic and non-verbal and faces more challenges in a day than I will likely face in a year,” Mike says.

“Whilst facing these challenges he has the biggest heart, the most infectious laugh, and carries sheer courage and determination into everyday life — that’s what made me set a challenge for him, and every child out there trying to find their voice and place in today’s society.”

Pushing beyond limits

Reflecting on his 100-mile run, Mike describes both the physical and mental challenge it demanded.

“The run honestly took me to places I didn’t think I could go, but any time it got tough, I thought of my son and why I was completing this challenge.”

Through it all, Arthur remained his driving force.

“Arthur taught me the greatest gift in life — that love needs no words. It can be created and shared in actions. I wanted to try and give him something back.”

Raising awareness and creating change

Mike is passionate about raising awareness of the challenges autistic children and their families face, particularly when accessing education and supp

ort.

“Autistic children need our help. Specialist schools across the country are overworked, understaffed and full, and children are unable to receive the education and support they so desperately need and deserve.”

He believes that organisations like Avenues Group and Autism Hampshire play a vital role.

“Charities like Avenues Group and Autism Hampshire provide them with a chance.”

Running as an ally

For Mike, running the London Marathon this April is another way to show up as an autism ally — using his strength, determination and platform to support others.

“I will forever be an autism ally, standing side by side with my son in every moment, whether that be big or small, and making sure his voice is heard.”

“I will fight for acceptance in all areas of Arthur’s life, not just to raise awareness.”

Support Mike and help make a difference

Mike is running the London Marathon to support autistic children and families and to help create a more inclusive and understanding world.

If you can, please consider supporting Mike’s fundraising journey today by making a donation here

Your donation — no matter the size — will help make a real difference.

Thank you, Mike — we’ll be cheering you on every mile of the way